Sam Smith Surprises Fans with Ed Sheeran and Brandi Carlile at 22nd Show in Warsaw, Plus a Live Debut Duet
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In the vibrant neighborhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Warsaw stands out as a unique venue that blends a rich cultural heritage with an intimate concert experience. Known for its Polish cuisine, including pierogies and kielbasa, Warsaw has welcomed a diverse array of artists, from Jack White to Kesha. However, Sam Smith’s current residency has added a special dimension to this beloved space. Over three months, the Grammy and Oscar-winning artist has transformed the 1,000-capacity venue into an intimate setting where fans can connect with the music. “I wanted to get back into rooms where I can see your faces,” Smith told the audience on December 10. “It’s been such a beautiful experience, so thank you to the Warsaw.”
During the 22nd show of his 24-concert “To Be Free” residency, Smith showcased his talents to a star-studded audience that included fashion icon Anna Wintour and actress Anne Hathaway. Over the course of 90 captivating minutes, Smith surprised attendees with two special guests on an unexpectedly chilly night. “I come from England—and this is cold!” he quipped.
Brandi Carlile, whom Smith met through the War Child charity, joined him on stage for the song “Party of One,” originally recorded together in 2018 to benefit children affected by war. Carlile’s powerful voice harmonized beautifully with Smith’s on the somber track.
Shortly after, Ed Sheeran, who had been in the VIP section with his wife, joined Smith, much to the audience’s delight. After planting a kiss on Sheeran’s head, Smith announced that this performance would mark the live debut of “Who We Love,” a song from Smith’s 2023 album Gloria. With guitar in hand, Sheeran exchanged melodic lines with Smith, fostering a relaxed yet musically rich atmosphere.
The evening could have easily been memorable with just those two duets. However, Smith had more in store for the audience. Carlile and Sheeran returned for a finale that turned into a venue-wide sing-along of their Billboard Hot 100 top 5 hit “I’m Not the Only One.” While the blend of their voices was impressive, Smith’s rich, nuanced vocal talent stood out.
As the Warsaw residency nears its conclusion, anticipation builds for Smith’s future. During the residency, Smith has also been previewing new material, including a song titled “My Guy,” which they noted was written in Brooklyn. “Recently, it’s been nice to sing happy love songs,” Smith shared. “It feels like a long time I’ve waited to sing a song like this.” The song appears to be inspired by fashion designer Christian Cowan, who was present at the show. Given its upbeat energy, there’s hope for another record from the chart-topping artist in the near future.
